2040 N Loop 336 W, Ste 230

What exactly is crown lengthening surgery anyway?

What exactly is crown lengthening surgery anyway?

“My crown keeps coming off and my dentist is insisting that I have a crown lengthening surgery before he puts on a new crown. What exactly is that?”

The most common reason for you to be referred to a periodontist for a crown lengthening procedure is so that your dentist can place a more stable crown on a tooth that does not have enough height. Crown lengthening is a surgical procedure that exposes more of the tooth so that the new crown fits better, lasts longer, and is more stable. If your dentist were to simply force the edges of the crown under the gum tissue, it could cause a condition known as biologic impingement, setting you up for chronic pain, inflammation of the gum tissue, and possible bone loss.

Another reason that a crown lengthening procedure may be necessary would be to expose decay that has destroyed tooth structure under the gumline. After your periodontist has surgically re-contoured the underlying bone and re-positioned the gum tissue to completely expose the decay, your dentist can place a filling or crown that properly restores the tooth.

If you have a “gummy” smile, or you feel as if your teeth look “too short,” you may feel self-conscious when you speak or smile. A crown lengthening procedure will enhance your appearance by exposing the parts of your teeth that are supposed to be showing. Excess bone and gum tissue, which are covering more of the teeth than necessary, are skillfully removed. The periodontist is an artist who is an expert at providing you with a proportional, symmetrical gumline. It is the most natural way to a beautiful smile, often without the need for veneers or crowns! What can you expect after your crown lengthening surgery?

You can expect mild to moderate discomfort which is controlled with non-steroidal anti-inflammatories, like Aleve or Advil.

We send you home with a re-freezable gel pack in a soft sleeve that you should use for the first eight hours to minimize swelling and discomfort.

You will eat cool, soft foods like ice cream and yogurt for the first 24 hours, and then soft foods of any temperature during the two-week healing period.

During the healing phase, you may notice increased sensitivity to cold. This usually subsides after a few weeks.

Typically, at the two-week follow-up appointment, you are released to have your new crown placed, if indicated, and advised to resume normal brushing, flossing, and eating.

If your dentist has recommended a crown lengthening procedure or you have a “gummy” smile, please call the office for a consultation.
Your partner in health,
Dr. Kip Saunders, Expert in Crown Lengthening in The Woodlands & Houston, TX.

Great experience with Dr. Saunders, usually not a fan of going to get work done by new peeps but everyone was super nice and it was painless! The waiting room was clean and I didn’t have to wait to long so I’ll be using him again for some other work I gotta have done

If I could give these guys and gals 100 stars, I would! The staff is exceptionally friendly and helpful; it’s just so happy and friendly in there!! Dr. Saunders is a world-class periodontist and I would recommend him to any of my family members and friends. The dental implant he placed for me was performed efficiently and completely painless. I highly recommend Dr. Saunders and the staff at Periodontal Center of Excellence. They are just the best!

I had a wonderful experience with Dr. Saunders. I was so nervous to be “cut on” and Dr. Saunders and his staff made me feel so at ease from the very start of my treatment until the end. I would recommend him and his staff to anyone! Thanks so much. I’m so happy to have my perio issues fixed.

First time dental patient at this practice as I recently moved to TexasI was treated warmly and had an easy check in processI was then immediately escorted to the exam room where I met with Dr. SaundersWe agreed on a treatment plan process as well as follow up appointments. I was able to chose a date and time convenient within my work schedule for a more concentrated dental procedureGreat experience

First time dental patient at this practice as I recently moved to TexasI was treated warmly and had an easy check in processI was then immediately escorted to the exam room where I met with Dr. SaundersWe agreed on a treatment plan process as well as follow up appointments. I was able to chose a date and time convenient within my work schedule for a more concentrated dental procedureGreat experience

Dr. Saunders has taken great care of my periodontal disease. He uses state of the art equipment (e.g. laser) and the whole staff is friendly and they do a great job. Appointments are always on time. I have been going there for four years and have maintenance/cleaning appointments every six months. My perio is greatly improved and I highly recommend Dr. Saunders.

I’ve had two tooth extractions with Dr. Saunders over the span of 4 years. I like Dr. Saunders because he’s incredibly knowledgeable and has great patient care skills. He put my mind completely as ease when I came to his office for a consultation/second opinion. His staff treats you with kindness and respect that I haven’t seen elsewhere. His practice is a true reflection of the passion and years Dr. Saunders has poured into it. I would highly recommend.

Arrived early. Seen early. Dental tech took the time to explain what was being done and provided welcome advice on how to improve my dental techniques at home. Waited only a few moments between end of cleaning and arrival of Dr Sanders who conducted an exam. WELL DONE.

Dr. Saunders and his team are excellent! I’m a nervous Nellie when it come to dentistry , especially if surgery is required. He and his whole team were kind, patient and capable. If I had a concern it was addressed immediately. I even got a hug from Jill!! I highly recommend Periodontal Center of Excellence - Dr. Kip Saunders!

I wasn't looking forward to having my tooth extracted, (who does, right?) but Dr. Saunders and his awesome assistant, Roxy are top notch. I didn't have a choice, about my tooth BUT I did have a choice where I went. Thank you for a painless experience. Roxy's pat on my shoulder was comforting, as well as Dr S. describing what he was doing. No anxiety at all! I highly recommend your practice.